HM Sultan Haitham Presides Over Council of Ministers Meeting, Approves Key Economic and Social Initiatives

Oman, 20 September, 2024 : His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik presided over a Council of Ministers meeting at Al Maamourah Palace, where he expressed gratitude for Oman’s economic progress, particularly the reduction in public debt, which has boosted confidence in the local economy.

The Council discussed national employment priorities, approving an additional RO 50 million for job creation initiatives and allocating 1.2% of the value of purchase invoices from key sectors to support jobseekers.

In social welfare, RO 72 million was earmarked for the “Family Income Support Benefit Programme,” while RO 40 million was added to the current 5-year plan to accelerate school construction in response to rising student numbers.

The Council approved the National Programme for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Advanced Digital Technologies to enhance Oman’s ranking in the Government AI Readiness Index.

Sultan Haitham praised the success of the 2024 Khareef Dhofar season, which saw one million visitors, and called for improvements in tourist services to sustain future growth. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of streamlining government services and announced plans to launch electronic platforms for public feedback by 2025.

His Majesty also reiterated the need to safeguard Omani society from extremism and praised military and security efforts in maintaining national security. He reaffirmed Oman’s commitment to fostering regional and international cooperation.

Source : www.omannews.gov.om